Members defy downward trend
Uniglobe members have reported a 43% rise in sales despite downward trends in travel.
With figures for December strong, the independent business travel management group said many of its members are looking to increase their sales teams.
Derek Hearl-Maunder, president and coo of Uniglobe British Isles, said despite good results the group would remain realistic for 2009.
"Sales from September onwards went against the general market with December showing a 43% increase against the same period in 2007," he said.
"Whilst part of this was due to the recent alliance with Worldchoice, which has helped to increase overall turnover, the underlying factor was one of steady growth across the group.
"More importantly, margins held up and increased, so even agents where sales might have been slightly down were reporting increased profitability."
Uniglobe agent Martin Greenwood (Regent Travel, Stockport) adds: "Strong and stable companies will be well-positioned to weather the current economic downturn and I feel that that there will be an even greater opportunity to secure new business."
www.uniglobetravelbi.co.uk